Digital Passport

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• Gettysburg Black History Trail

Ignite Your Curiosity

Welcome to the Gettysburg Black History Trail, a journey through the rich and often overlooked history of African Americans in Gettysburg and the surrounding areas. Nestled within a town steeped in historical significance, the trail offers a unique perspective on the events before, during, and after the Battle of Gettysburg, shedding light on the experiences of Black individuals and communities.

As the site of one of the most consequential battles in American history, Gettysburg holds a unique place in the nation’s collective memory. Yet, amidst the stories of conflict and valor, the contributions and struggles of Black Americans have often been overshadowed. The Gettysburg Black History Trail seeks to rectify this oversight by uncovering the diverse narratives that have shaped a community.

While some stops are nestled within the heart of Gettysburg’s town center, others require you to venture into the picturesque countryside, offering a diverse tapestry of experiences. Whether you’re strolling through historic streets or cruising along scenic byways, the Black History Trail promises to ignite your curiosity and deepen your understanding of this storied land.

Join us as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire future generations through the Gettysburg Black History Trail.

Get a free commemorative Black History Trail journal when you check in at any trail stop.

Use the journal to respond in your own words to what you’ve seen and heard.

You can redeem your journal at any museum on the trail:

Gettysburg Beyond the Battle Museum

Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center

Seminary Ridge Museum and Education Center

Thad’s Place: Home of the Thaddeus Stevens Museum.

These partners are responsible for the content on each highlighted site along the trail:

Adams County Historical Society

Gettysburg Beyond the Battle Museum

Gettysburg Foundation

Gettysburg Lincoln Railroad Station™ – A History and Visitor Information Stop & Historic Site

Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center – Gettysburg Museum of the American Civil War

Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center – Ticket to the Past—Unforgettable Journeys

Gettysburg National Military Park

Abraham Brian Farm

Gettysburg National Cemetery

James Warfield House

Lincoln Cemetery Project Association

Lincoln Cemetery

Seminary Ridge Historic Preservation Foundation

Seminary Ridge Museum and Education Center

Thaddeus Stevens Society

Thad’s Place: Home of the Thaddeus Stevens Museum

As you embark on this journey through the rich tapestry of Black heritage in our community, we invite you to remember that history is often shaped by perspectives, biases, and the passage of time. We recognize that the historical narratives presented may vary, as Black history has often been overlooked and marginalized. The voices and experiences of Black individuals were not always included in the mainstream narratives of the past. As such, the information provided on this trail may differ from other sources or accounts. We acknowledge that our understanding of history is ever evolving, and we welcome collaboration, feedback, and additional insights from all who engage with this trail. Also, terms like “African American,” “Black,” and “colored” are used to reflect language of the historical time period representing each site. If you encounter discrepancies or have alternative perspectives on the landmarks and stories presented, we encourage you to share them with us.

Your passport expires on April 1, 2025. Renew your subscription on April 15, 2025, and continue your exploration of the stories that define our shared past.